Holloway's Heyday – The Oxford Street of the North

On this walking tour you'll discover how the Nag's Head area of Holloway Road quickly evolved from a well-to-do middle class suburb to become North London's go-to shopping district, offering the best selection of well-known brands, impressive independent outlets, beautiful restaurants and top-end entertainment, all accessed by excellent wide roads and frequent rail services.

Hints of history are hiding in plain view within ornate shop façades and architectural details. Hear about impressive Victorian window displays arranged behind curved glass, framed with polished brass and hand-painted signage, with courteous staff in immaculate white starched aprons.

See evidence of palatial variety theatres, drapery stores, men’s outfitters, gin palaces, tea rooms, banqueting halls and the early labyrinthine department stores, one of which grew to become one of the best-known shops in North London, succeeding into the latter part of the twentieth century. Hear about its friendly rival round the corner, which was slightly larger, more impressive and, possibly, an even more successful establishment in the Victorian and Edwardian eras.

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• This almost circular 2-hr tour starts near Holloway Road tube station.
• The exact meeting point will be supplied after purchase – please see the FAQs section below

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Customer feedback: "I came back for more because I really like your presentation style" / "...really interesting and your knowledge is amazing! Thank you." / "OMG... I've lived in Holloway all my adult life and I'd never noticed half of what you showed us!!" / "I loved hearing about Beales and Jones Bros as I remember both as a child" / "Your mix of history and observation is so engaging" / "I am a transport nerd – I'd love to have been able to travel on that tram. Fascinating." / "An inspirational and educational couple of hours – we'll be back for more soon!"/ More feedback here

My guiding style is inclusive, open and friendly. I design and research every tour myself – in fact, the research never ends. The walks and talks I offer are all on subjects that intrigue me and each one highlights a different facet of my personality. I am particularly interested in the architecture of our ever-changing streets and the little details on and above them. For more information, please visit www.janeslondonwalks.com

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Where does this walk start and what if I am running late?

• Important re meeting point – please do not rely on QR codes and maps sent via other apps as these often give incorrect information. The specific meeting point will be clearly described in words within the Order Confirmation email sent to you immediately after your purchase:
• Scroll down to the bottom of that email to the Additional Information section where you will find a written description of the meeting point as well as details of how to play catch-up should you be running late on the day.
• As a back-up, the same information will be sent to you within a reminder email 24hrs before the event.

What is the minimum age to attend this event?

• There is no minimum age
• No charge for children aged 5 or younger. Children 6-15yrs = concession rate
• All children 15 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult – one child per paying adult.

Can I just show up and pay on arrival?

• No – this is a ticketed event with a maximum group size – places must be booked in advance.

Do I have to bring a copy of my ticket to the event?

• No – you will simply be asked your name

Can I get a refund / is my ticket transferrable?

• As you can appreciate, refunds and reallocations do not apply to people who simply do not show up on the day!
• You can organise your own refund through Eventbrite's ticketing system up to 2 days before the walk starts. However, please note that the booking fee (absorbed within the ticket price) is not refundable.
• Alternatively, I can hold your purchase for transfer to another Jane's London Walk within the next three months – please notify me in writing via email/text at least 48 hours before this walk is due to start.

What if it's raining?

• Walking tours will go ahead, rain or shine.
• However, if severely adverse conditions are forecast, or other unforeseen complications cause the event to be cancelled, you will receive notification and a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchairs?

• The walk will be mostly on standard pavements and should not pose any problems further to those experienced on an average high street.

How can I contact the organiser?

• Email: [email protected]
• Mobile: +44(0)7941 475003
• Instagram/Facebook: janeslondonwalks

Host or Publisher Jane's London Walks